The importance of following your cosmetic surgeon’s aftercare advice

For anyone undergoing cosmetic surgery, there will be a degree of healing required afterwards. Depending on the nature of your operation, the wound that needs to heal could be significant, for example, following a tummy tuck or breast implants, or it could be more minimally invasive, such as a blepharoplasty or eyebrow lift.

There are many ‘old wives’ tales’ out there suggesting different remedies for skin healing, but this should definitely be discussed with your cosmetic surgeon.

Avoid ‘going rogue’ and using your own remedies to help wounds heal

One such theory is the application of petroleum jelly to the wound. According to a report published recently by the BBC, this isn’t quite as effective as once thought.

The report explains “the label says petroleum jelly can help protect minor cuts, scrapes and burns. But new research suggests immediately slathering an open wound with this ointment might be a bad idea.” It goes on to shows that an investigation undertaken by the Journal of Clinical Investigation has found that “scientists have studied how the skin creates its own “natural plaster” to help heal these injuries. Oil-based substances, such as petroleum jelly, appear to disrupt this important process, and might increase the risk of wound infection.”

This is another example of why it is really important to listen to the advice given by experts when you have undergone an operation for cosmetic purposes. Although there may be some truth in some wives’ tales, many are not scientifically proven and may cause more harm than good.

Trust the advice of the experts

Throughout your consultation period and the operation itself, your surgeon and their team will have built up a picture of your pre-operative health and will guide your healing process based on information gleaned and the most up to date medical knowledge available at the time. The best advice is that if a healing cream, ointment or natural remedy hasn’t been recommended by your plastic surgeon, it is best to avoid using it. You’re always best to follow the treatment plan and stick to any associated medication you have been prescribed.